Meiji Shrine & Inner Garden

このヴェニューを日本語で読む

Museums & Attractions

Major venue

Review

Opened in 1920, the shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji – whose reign (1868-1912) coincided with Japan’s modernisation – and his consort, Empress Shoken. Exceedingly popular, especially at New Year, when it draws crowds of a million-plus, the shrine hosts numerous annual festivals, including two sumo dedicatory ceremonies in early January and at the end of September. Shinto weddings take place here regularly. The current main building dates from 1958, a reconstruction after the original was destroyed during World War II. It is an impressive example of the austere style and restrained colours typical of Shinto architecture. Just off the main path to the shrine, through the wooded Inner Garden, are two entrances to another garden, the little-visited Meiji Jingu Gyoen. It’s neither large nor especially beautiful, but it is quiet – except in June, when the iris field attracts many admirers. Vegetation is dense, limiting access to the few trails, which lead to a pond and teahouse.

Tokyo City Guide (Edition 5)

Details

Address
1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku

Transport Harajuku Station (Yamanote line), Omotesando exit; Meiji-Jingumae Station (Chiyoda, Fukutoshin lines), exit 2.

Telephone 03 3379 5511

Open Shrine & inner garden spring, autumn 5.10am-5.50pm daily. summer 5am-6.30pm daily. winter 6am-4.10pm daily. meiji shrine garden mar-oct 9am-5pm daily. nov-feb 9am-4pm daily.

Admission Admission Shrine & Inner Garden free. Meiji Shrine Garden ¥500. Treasure house ¥200.

Map

Please note: All information is correct at the time of writing but is subject to change without notice.

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